Food and Dairy Compliance Officer

Salary: $25.69 - $40.75

Schedule: Full-time, hybrid (remote/in-office)

About The Role

We are seeking an Environmental Health Scientist III to join our team. This is a working-level position that may be underfilled as an Environmental Health Scientist I or II, depending on qualifications. As an Environmental Health Scientist III, you will specialize in one or two areas of food, meat, produce, or dairy compliance. The role is based in Salt Lake City or the Southwest region.

Responsibilities

• Assist in planning, coordinating, and implementing food and dairy compliance programs.
• Review state and federally regulated food and dairy industry facilities.
• Provide guidance on the interpretation and enforcement of relevant laws.
• Perform inspections and investigations with a high degree of independent judgment.
• Ensure the reconditioning, removal, or destruction of condemned products and prepare cases for legal action when necessary.
• Work in and around controlled substances, including cannabis production and processing.
• Inspect facilities, machinery, equipment, and systems to verify safety, maintenance, sanitary conditions, functions, and quality.
• Ensure compliance with applicable federal and/or state laws, regulations, and agency rules.
• Gather, identify, and/or store samples for on-site testing or laboratory analysis.
• Condemn, detain, embargo, or stop the sale of unfit equipment, machinery, structures, or food products.
• Maintain detailed inspection or investigation records and prepare reports.
• Evaluate cases and determine the need for ongoing agency involvement.
• Issue or recommend issuance of orders, citations, sanctions, and/or warnings for violations.
• Coordinate and act as a liaison between the agency and other organizations, suppliers, or work units.
• Receive, research, and respond to questions or complaints; provide information and explain policies.
• Develop educational materials and speak to state or community groups.
• Draft correspondence, reports, documents, and other written materials.

Requirements

• A current Environmental Health Scientist License, or the ability and qualification to obtain one.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in a related field, or at least 30 semester hours of science credits if in another area of study.
• Extensive knowledge and experience in food safety, processing standards, processing equipment, HACCP, and product extraction methodologies.
• Extensive knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations pertaining to food, dairy, and dietary supplements.
• Understanding of principles, theories, and practices of production, processing, storage, and distribution of agricultural goods.
• Ability to learn principles, theories, and practices of agricultural science, food safety, and public health protection.
• Valid driver’s license to drive a motor vehicle on state highways.

Skills

• Communication and Presentation: Deliver presentations or training using acceptable methods; speak clearly and concisely; communicate fluently in English; write clearly and effectively.
• Analytical and Administrative: Read, interpret, and apply laws, rules, and regulations; compose and produce reports; evaluate information against standards; maintain records in written or electronic form.
• Interpersonal and Professional: Deal with people tactfully and professionally; show sensitivity in interactions.

Benefits

• Work-Life Balance: Support for work/life balance as a vital part of our culture.
• Job Stability: Employment within a well-established organization.
• Career Growth: Opportunities for skill development and leadership within a large organization.
• Meaningful Work: Contribute to important services that benefit the community and public health.
• Supportive Work Environment: Part of a team that values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.

Supplemental Information

• Adequate visual acuity is required.
• Ability to obtain FDA and NEHA certification.
• Work may involve risks requiring special safety precautions and/or equipment (e.g., operating machines, hazardous chemicals).
• Work requires minimal physical exertion, including standing, walking on rough surfaces, bending, crouching, stooping, stretching, reaching, and lifting moderately heavy items (up to 50 lbs.).